Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
DTC P0342: Cam Signal Circuit: Notes
During cranking, Ignition Control Module (ICM) monitors crankshaft position sensor signal. Signal is used to determine correct cylinder pair to spark first. ICM processes signal then sends a fuel control reference pulse to PCM. When PCM receives this pulse, all 6 injectors will be commanded to open for one priming shot of fuel in all cylinders. After priming, injectors remain off for the next 6 fuel control reference pulses from ICM (2 crankshaft revolutions). This allows each cylinder a chance to use fuel from priming shot.
During this waiting period, a cam pulse will have been received by PCM. PCM will now begin to operate injectors sequentially based on true camshaft position. However, if cam signal is not present at start-up, Code P0342 will set and PCM will start sequential fuel delivery in random pattern with a one in 6 chance that fuel delivery is correct. Code P0342 will set when engine is running and cam signal is not received by PCM for last 5 seconds.
- This step verifies integrity of sensor circuits.
- This step verifies integrity of circuit between ICM and PCM.
- Voltage reading will be zero if camshaft gear magnet is interfacing with camshaft position sensor.
- If voltage reading of cam signal circuit is constantly varying and connection to PCM is good, PCM is faulty.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.